An elderly woman's home in Petaluma was burglarized by a man who pretended to be an employee from the water department as his accomplice robbed the residence, police said.
The burglary was reported about 11:45 a.m. oon Saturday in the 1400 block of Baywood Drive.
When the impostor came to the house, wearing an orange-and-green vest with reflective tape, he told the woman he needed to check the water line to make sure it was working, according to Police Lt. Tim Lyons.
While he was checking the line he told the woman to turn on the water for five minutes. During that time, police believe he made a phone call to an accomplice who then robbed the home.
After the impostor left, the victim realized some of her valuables were missing, including pieces of jewelry kept in her family for 50 years.
Police described the suspect around 6 feet 6 inches, and weighs between 220 to 245 pounds.
Lyons explained water department employees wear a photo i.d., uniformed shirts with a seal on the front, and don't work weekends.
To verify a water department employee, residents should call (707) 778-4546.
Bay City News contributed to this report.
